Whether you already live in Europe or need to hop across the pond to get there, a weekend exploring a new city in Europe is exactly what you could need for your next vacation.

Whether you’re Europe traveling alone, with friends, or with your family, there is something that will appeal to you and your crew in each of Europe’s top visited cities.

And city breaks are cheap! From exploring museums to ancient buildings to art and music exposures, or just eating your way through a new place, visiting a European city is a great way to discover new cultures and make lasting memories.

It may even be worth spending some time there to see multiple cities, since travel is so affordable once you’re in Europe.

And city breaks last minute can be just what you need to recharge and refresh.

However, if you can only visit one city on your next trip, it can be overwhelming picking which one to go to.

Have no fear, if you’re still deciding which city is the best fit for your next vacation, keep reading to learn what you can do when you visit some cities from the city breaks top 10 lists in Europe!

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London, UK ‍

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The most visited European city, London is known as a cultural hub that influences music, fashion, art, and politics around the world.

Tourists from all over visit London throughout the year—there is never a bad time to go! You will notice that many of the top places and things to do are walkable if you stay in the city’s hotspots.

Or you can easily access the underground Tube and catch a ride around the city.

London can be done affordably or without holding anything back, it just depends on what type of trip you want to experience.

This is also a great city for solo travelers, couples, and those with kids; everyone will find something grand to experience.

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London Eye 

The best way to start your London trip is way up, on the giant Ferris wheel known as the London Eye.

From here, you will have a bird’s eye view of the main city below! The wheel is very slow and spacious, so even those with the most sensitive stomachs should be okay on their journey around.

Be sure to book early, this attraction sells out fast!

Book a ride on the London eye at a great price through Tiqets.com right here.

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Tower of London

Step back in time and learn about King Henry VIII, Queen Elizabeth and all of the other infamous royals that are constantly portrayed in media.

Walk around the grounds and imagine the torture that went on before you stop to see if you can make a Queen’s Guard laugh.

Book a ticket and see the Crown Jewels and some of the royal family’s most celebrated outfits.

Can you handle a tour of the tower? Book your visit with our partners Viator.com right here.

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Hyde Park

After strolling past Buckingham Place, walk through Hyde Park.

On a sunny afternoon, book tickets to rent a paddle boat and explore the lake. And walk through the overhanging gardens with a cup of tea.

You will love people-watching in this area and resting your feet before you explore some more.

London Zoo

One of the world’s most famous zoos, the London Zoo lets you feed giraffes, see hanging sloths, and learn all about different animals.

You could easily spend a whole day here walking through the various exhibits.

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West End

If you want a night out on the town, head over to the West End and catch an award-winning show!

You will find shows that are appealing to all ages and people and of all caliber and celebrity.

See iconic shows like Wicked, new shows like Six, or old classics like Young Frankenstein.

See great shows in the West End all year round and be astounded at the dazzling lights and inspiring production. Book a ticket through Ticketmaster today!

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Paris, France 

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Paris is one of nearly everyone’s top places to visit, and for good reason!

The city of love isn’t just for couples and romantics. You can walk around and see beautiful gothic architecture next to modern and elegant patisseries.

Follow the River Seine and tour the many museums and churches that line the river. You will feel like you’re in a movie as you waltz through the city both day and night.

A trip to Paris should be on every traveler’s bucket list multiple times, a couple of days here just won’t be enough!

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Eiffel Tower

Even if you don’t head up the Eiffel Tower, a visit to the grounds below is an absolute must.

This iconic structure is in the heart of all the other tourist attractions you’ll want to stop at and is a delight to see lit up at night.

Pack a lunch or visit one of the cafes around it and enjoy a nice meal underneath one of the world’s most iconic buildings.

Ready to see the city from the Tower? We think you should be! Book a tour through Viator.com

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The Louvre

Want to find out for yourself why the Mona Lisa is smiling? If you plan on visiting the Louvre, book your tickets ahead and get to the museum early to avoid the crowds.

The second largest art museum in the world, even if you can get tickets to visit inside, be sure to take a photo with the glass pyramid outside!

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Notre Dame de Paris Cathedral

Even though you cannot visit inside the cathedral currently, a walk around this gothic medieval cathedral is well worth the time.

Known for its imposing gargoyles up top, inside is the Crown of Thorns and a part of the cross that Jesus was crucified on.

Damaged in a great rooftop fire in April of 2019, the cathedral’s roof is being redone thanks to donations from around the world and should be completed by April 2024, when mass will be held once again.

Moulin Rouge 

This world-famous cabaret club is known for its bright red facade and large windmill on the roof.

This is the alleged dance hall where the can-can dance was created, which is a move when dancers are in a line and kick their legs up while wearing full, fun skirts and heels.

Many are familiar with Moulin Rouge due to a movie depiction of it by the same name staring Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor.

Today, this is a tourist attraction that many enjoy visiting for a night out.

Don’t hesitate, you can book your place today with Viator.com!

‍The Catacombs

inIt’s hard to believe, but below the streets of Paris are catacombs filled with the remains of Parisians from yesteryear.

These caves were constructed as a way to fortify the city’s roadways and are now a popular tourist attraction.

Be wary of bringing very young children here, due to the open skeletons and the amount of walking required during your visit.

Dare you enter the Catacombs? Explore more and book with Viator.com.

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Istanbul, Turkey ‍

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If you’re looking to see the perfect pairing of Western and Middle Eastern cultures, Istanbul needs to top your travel list.

Walk past dramatic tile mosaics and around stunning architecture. The people in Istanbul are known for being very friendly and you will love the relaxing atmosphere of the city.

Hagia Sophia

This is the main stop you must make when you visit Istanbul.

Built more than 1,500 years ago, the Hagia Sophia has always been an important religious building. People of all backgrounds will enjoy touring this place.

The Blue Mosque

See the beautiful blue tile work up close at the Blue Mosque. Be sure to follow the mosque rules—this is a good first mosque as they are very tourist friendly.  

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Topkapi Palace Museum

You will be left speechless by the amazing music tile work and beautiful gardens at this palace-turned museum.  

Grand Bazaar

‍Shopping in the Grand Bazaar can be a lot of fun! From colorful collections to a maze of shops, even kids will love exploring the marketplace here.

Basilica Cistern

Head under the streets to see an ancient reservoir. You will see Medusa heads and learn about the mysterious history of Istanbul.

There’s just so much to choose from in Istanbul. Search and book all of the above and so much more with Viator.com

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Rome, Italy

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Rome is the perfect city to visit if you love history, good food, and making memories.

Here you will be taken back to see the foundations of Ancient Rome and the iconic buildings and structures that have been in media for decades, like the Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum.

Spend a day inside Vatican City and admire the beautiful artwork painted on the ceiling. Or grab a scoop of gelato and walk around the streets listening to the different sounds of the city.

Trevi Fountain

Even if you’re not a big Lizzie McGuire fan, you will want to toss in a Euro and make a wish at the Trevi Fountain.

Be amazed by the impressive detailing on the fountain and try your best to get a good photo upfront.

Visiting the fountain at night when it’s illuminated and less crowded is always a great idea.

The Colosseum

Pretend you’re a gladiator as you walk through the tunnels and pathways around the Colosseum!

Hear about the ancient and legendary fights that took place here and how men were pitted against each other (and animals!).

You may even be surprised to learn that they would flood the floor at points to have naval exhibitions.

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Vatican City 

Whether you are Catholic or not, a visit to Vatican City is well worth it.

You’ll want to book your tickets early. You will see artifacts and relics as you walk through the museum.

And don’t forget to look up in the Sistine Chapel! End your tour at the large and imposing St. Peter’s Basilica.

There’s no better way to explore the Vatican than with a Vatican City Pass. Get yours with Tiqets.com
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Prague, Czech Republic ‍

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If you’re looking for a medieval city with modern history sprinkled throughout, Prague is the place for you!

You can certainly pack a weekend into Prague if you only have a long weekend to plan.

Prague Castle

You can easily spend half a day exploring the castle grounds in Prague.

Visit the Royal Palace, St. Vitus Cathedral, St. George’s Basilica, and the gardens.

You can even walk around the grounds without paying an entrance fee!

And for literary lovers, visit house number 22 in the servant’s quarters—this is where Franz Kafka lived from 1916 to 1917.

Book a walking tour around Prague Castle for a truly immersive experience, with Viator.com.

Astronomical Clock

Installed in the Old Town Hall in 1410, this is the world’s oldest working astronomical clock.

You will notice a crowd form before every new hour strikes, where they can watch the 12 apostles walk between two windows as Death strikes the bell.

Old Town Square

If you’re looking for a good starting or meeting point, go to Old Town Square. Here you will see two prominent churches, Old Town Hall, and the Czech National Art Gallery.

There are also tons of cafés and food vendors for you to eat at before you continue exploring the city.
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Amsterdam, Netherlands 

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Amsterdam is famous for many things and is absolutely a place you need to visit.  

Visit the city in the Spring and see the iconic tulips lining the streets and take a bouquet home to admire.

Walk through the many museums and see how Amsterdam has influenced so much of our art and history in ways you never knew.

Or just hop onto a boat ride and see the iconic canals that weave through Amsterdam.

This city is safe and family-friendly and an absolute delight for your next trip. 

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Rijksmuseum

You will find countless art pieces and antiquities in the Rijksmuseum.

There are over 250 rooms for you to walk through and a library with over 35,000 books!

You can spend as much time here as you want without ever boring.

Book a visit with Tiqets.com

Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum is home to the largest collection of art pieces by Vincent Van Gogh, with over 200 paintings adorning the walls.

You will also find letters and drawings on display.

Truly a wonder, you won’t regret booking a tour with Tiqets.com

Anne Frank House

A more somber part of your trip, visit where Anne Frank and her family hid from the Nazis during World War II.

Learn about her life and hear the story of the atrocities against the Jewish people during this dark time in modern history.

Don’t miss this unique experience. Book now with Tiqets.com

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Conclusion

A trip to Europe no matter the time of year can be just what you need to clear your mind and get away for a while.

Visiting European cities is easy once you are on the continent and can more freely move around from city to city. If you need city breaks last minute, visit one of these top tourist cities in Europe!

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